Ahead of this morning’s press conference to officially announce zen millionaire Phil Jackson as Knicks president, fans deluded enough to be excited by the mere gesture could show their allegiance by further lining James Dolan’s pockets. As photographed by MSG Network commentator Al Trautwig and noted by a more skeptical Deadspin, T-shirts commemorating a guy who, as a Knick, last averaged 2.4 points per game in 1978 are now on sale. Let the Phil Jackson era begin!
“Welcome Home, Phil” banners were also present:
Slightly more assuring was Dolan’s promise to “willingly and gratefully” cede control to Jackson. “It’s been a very disappointing year for our organization and fans. No one is more frustrated than I am,” the owner said. “Regardless of our record, when you have a chance to get Phil to run your team, you do it. Plain and simple.”
Jackson has a five-year contract ($12 million per) and said he’ll be moving to New York, while Carmelo will be staying. “I have no problem saying Carmelo Anthony is part of our future plans,” said Jackson. The only appropriate response to everything stated today is “Yeah, sure, we’ll see.”
